My Secret Exercise Weapon
Although I like the results of exercise, I hate to do it. For the last six months though, I’ve been addicted to spinning. However, while finding a great class is essential for staying with a plan, it’s not my secret.
My exercise outfit is. When I like what I wear and in it, look like the athlete I’d like to be, I’m more apt to work out. And there’s a lot of good stuff out there at all price levels.
So guys throw out those old gym shorts and ragged top and ladies, that pair of old tights and baggy T-shirt. Get yourself some cool gear and it will make all the difference. Some ideas:
Go techno: Look for clothes made of high-tech fabrics that wick (keep the moisture off your skin). Nike has a fabric called Dri-FIT: blends of cotton and polyester and polyester and spandex that keep you cool and dry. Avoid pure cotton, which absorbs sweat, becoming a sodden mess when wet.
Get sleek: Select a look that skims your shape, rather than hiding it. The outfit doesn’t have to encase you like a sausage, but it shouldn’t be baggy and shapeless. For women, bootcut tights are chic and flattering, topped with a fitted tank. For men, think Lance Armstrong: sleek bicycle shorts with a tank top.
Spotlight your assets: Consider cut and proportion when selecting workout wear. If you have great calves, bicycle shorts are the answer; great arms, go sleeveless. (If you don’t like your arms and can’t find a top with sleeves, buy a long-sleeved exercise T and shorten the sleeves to just below the elbows). Always wear supportive undergarments…they will also visually perfect your body.
Color up: All black is sexy and slimming, however a burst of color can really brighten your mood. Think about black bottoms with a colorful top.
Pack it in: Get a good-looking gym bag to carry all your stuff and always stock it with a clean outfit and socks.
Whoops. Gotta go to spinning class. I have on black, cropped bootleg tights with a semi-fitted dusty pink tank, which extends over my hips to elongate my torso. Best, I got it on sale.